Dìdi Review: A Relatable Coming-Of-Age Tale

As a gamer and someone who grew up during the mid-2000s, I can deeply relate to the coming-of-age story presented in Sean Wang’s Dìdi. The film beautifully captures the experiences of growing up as a Taiwanese-American boy during that era. The representation of MySpace, Instant Messaging, and YouTube uploading resonates with me on a personal level, taking me back to my own childhood.

Living through childhood can be quite an ordeal. In the scorching summer of 2008, Didi (Younger Brother) is a heartwarming coming-of-age comedy-drama film penned and helmed by Sean Wang. The story revolves around Chris (Izaac Wang), a 13-year-old boy on the brink of entering high school. We delve into his friendships, familial bonds with his sister and mother, and grandmother, as he navigates growing up amidst the digital age. This film is particularly relatable for individuals born in the mid-1990s due to its depictions of MySpace, Instant Messaging, and the burgeoning days of YouTube video uploads. However, it taps into a more profound and universal experience of adolescence.

I’ve just come off the success of my Oscar-nominated short film, “Nǎi Nai & Wài Pó” (Grandma and Grandma), and guess what? My real-life grandma plays Chris’s grandmother in this movie. Talk about keeping it personal! This project feels like I’m pouring a piece of myself onto the screen. The director and I share the same last name, and you can sense my unique perspective as a Taiwanese-American boy in the protagonist. Chris is also an aspiring filmmaker, just like me, and he uses his videography skills to create skateboarding videos for our local crew.

The film beautifully captures the unique Asian American experience, filled with culturally distinct practices and challenges. Parents offer unwarranted advice on health matters and body image, while umbrellas are carried even on sunny days. Important dates like 99 Ranch discount days mark the calendar. And at times, there’s a sense of not fully belonging in America. These experiences may also be familiar to those with immigrant upbringings. A standout aspect of this film is its portrayal of single-parent households. Chris lives with his older sister, Vivian (Shirley Chen), grandmother, Nai Nai (Chang Li Hua), and mother, Chungsing (Joan Chen). His father earns income abroad, leaving him to manage the household.

Didi’s film resonates with Bo Burnham’s 2018 movie “Eighth Grade,” but Wang intends to convey a unique experience. His objective is to preserve and portray a past moment in his life through the medium of cinema. He accurately depicts several aspects of adolescence, such as the crude language and frankness of teenage boys, especially towards girls. Puberty brings intense emotions, which are amplified for Chris as he develops feelings for Madi (Mahaela Park).

In a natural and easy-to-read way: Wang manages to capture the authenticity of teen crushes in his portrayal throughout the film. The performances rarely seem contrived, making it hard to tell that actors are acting. Many of the local cast members, who were new to acting, blend seamlessly into the production. It’s as if Wang allowed them to be true to themselves, resulting in organic dialogue that sounds natural and genuine from everyone involved.

The film stumbles slightly during some exaggerated scenes. Certain comedic aspects are reminiscent of the absurdity found in parts of Everything Everywhere All at Once. However, these unrealistic elements clash with the realistic, emotional scenes where a fish on Chris’s plate comes to life and speaks to him. Nevertheless, the movie shines when director Wang skillfully manages the performances and explores the subtler moments that profoundly affect the characters.

Izaac Wang delivers an impressive acting job in this production, portraying a complex character who frequently makes poor choices. Despite his repeated missteps, it’s difficult not to empathize with him due to the hardships he endures. His actions may be painful to watch, but they provide insight into his troubled life. Joan Chen shines as the most renowned actor in the ensemble, delivering a remarkable performance. Her character is multifaceted and heartbreaking, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.

As a huge fan of Dìdi, I can’t help but be drawn to the heartwarming bond between the protagonist and his mother. Their connection feels real and authentic, adding depth to the story. The sibling relationship is engaging as well, but it sometimes fluctuates between contrasting extremes. What truly resonated with me was the portrayal of Chris’s friendships. As we grow older, people move in different directions, and this movie captures that bittersweet reality beautifully. Few films manage to convey such an emotional and personal experience as effectively as Dìdi does.

SCORE: 7/10

According to ComingSoon’s review guidelines, a score of 7 represents “Good.” This means the entertainment piece is generally enjoyable and recommended, but might not be for everyone’s taste.

2024-07-25 19:11

SCORE: 7/10

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